Aravianism

Aravianism is a monotheistic religion centered on the veneration of the Demiurge, an absolutely transcendent deity. It is the predominant religion in Khijovia, with around 94% of the population practicing it. A minority of followers also remains in the southwestern cantons of Kyldigard.

Demiurge and Aravia

The Demiurge is viewed as the creator and sustainer of the universe, whose essence permeates every aspect of reality. While incomprehensible and inaccessible directly to humans, it manifests through the vital force that animates all things. Aravian belief holds that the vital force is the foundation of all existence. This vital force can be channeled and manipulated through magic. However, the practice of magic is strictly regulated: only the priests belonging to the Syrhic caste are permitted to study and perform magical arts.

Aravia, the founder and prophet of Aravianism, received revelation from the Demiurge. The precepts and doctrines he disseminated form the foundation of this faith. Aravia is regarded as the epitome of purity and wisdom, and his teachings are compiled in a sacred text known as the "Codex of Aravia."

Syrhics

The Syrhic caste comprises the ministers of Aravian worship. Joining the Syrhics requires a long and rigorous educational journey, including years of in-depth studies and a seminary with arduous trials. These trials are designed to test purity, wisdom, and the ability to channel the vital force without succumbing to corruption.

Some individuals are naturally more inclined to channel and perceive the vital force. These individuals, often recognized from a young age, are encouraged to pursue the path to join the Syrhics, where their abilities can be refined and used for the common good under the guidance of Aravian doctrine. Using magic for evil purposes is considered one of the gravest sins in Aravianism. The proper use of magic must always aim at the common good and align with the will of the Demiurge. The priests of the Syrhic caste are seen as spiritual guides who protect and direct the community towards purity and righteousness.

Synedrion

The Aravian Church is metonymically referred to as the Synedrion, named after the Syhric council of high ministers of worship, the Scholarchs. This council holds significant authority within the religious hierarchy and is responsible for the election of the Hierarch, the supreme priestly office, every seven years. The role of the Hierarch is pivotal, serving as the highest spiritual leader within the Aravian Church.

The jurisdiction of the Scholarchs is extensive, encompassing entire administrative regions within Khijovia. Their spiritual oversight ensures uniformity and adherence to religious doctrine across vast territories. In contrast, the governance of individual provinces is managed by the Hieropei, who administer the synedrial affairs on a more localized level, ensuring that the directives from the Scholarchs are implemented effectively. Municipial religious administration, however, is the responsibility of the Epimelets. These officials oversee the spiritual and religious activities within cities, providing a direct link between the urban populace and the broader organizational structure of the Aravian Church.

Pillars

In Aravianism, the spiritual pillars represent the fundamental principles that guide religious practice and the lives of the faithful. These pillars direct believers in their spiritual journey and their relationship with the Demiurge and the world around them.

1. The first pillar is unconditional faith in the Demiurge as the creator and custodian of the universe. This faith is expressed through prayer, meditation, and the worship of the Divine.

2. Spiritual purification is a central pillar of Aravianism. Believers are called to purify their souls by renouncing selfishness, violence, and wickedness, and embracing compassion, kindness, and justice.

3. Acquiring knowledge and wisdom is essential for drawing closer to the Divine. Believers must engage in the study of sacred texts, philosophical reflection, and the pursuit of truth to deepen their understanding of the world and the will of the Demiurge.

4. Community is a fundamental pillar of Aravianism. Believers are called to live in harmony and solidarity with their peers, offering mutual support, sharing, and compassion in times of need.

5. Finally, believers must accept and submit to the will of the Demiurge, recognizing that their destiny is part of a greater and mysterious plan. This pillar requires trust and surrender to divine guidance, even in times of difficulty and trial.